"Act of God" Interrupts Pope Benedict's Anti-Gay Speech

Pope Benedict XVI’s controversial World Youth Day appearance in Madrid took an interesting turn when a sudden bout of severe weather, including “powerful winds and sheets of rain struck at a vast air base, whipping off his skullcap, shaking the stage and knocking over at least one tent.”Although the Pope was unable to finish his speech, Vatican officials said that the “content of his entire speech [...] was still valid and could be published.”

In the few sentences spoken before the wind and rain forced him to leave the stage, Pope Benedict defended marriage as a commitment between a man and a woman, stating:

“The Lord calls many people to marriage, in which a man and a woman, in becoming one flesh, find fulfillment in a profound life of communion.”

Pope Benedict XVI has a history of denouncing gay and lesbian relationships, including an appearance in Portugal last year where he described gay marriage as “insidious and dangerous.” He has also spoken out against abortion, an important issue in Spain today where the Socialist Government has brought in “sweeping liberal reforms” that allow citizens easier access to “abortion, gay marriage, and fast-track divorce.”

Benedict’s most recent visit to Spain was controversial from the beginning, as the 60 million Euro ($85 million) cost to host the religious leader represents a real hardship for the Spanish economy, where the unemployment rate is at 21 percent. His appearance in the traditionally Catholic country was marked by resistance from clergy members, protests and an attempted kiss-in staged by gay and lesbian activists.

Upon his departure, the Pope promised to pray for all Spaniards, especially the young people of the country. He said:

“I am sure that they (the young people) will contribute the best they have to offer through their faith in Christ, so that this great country can face the challenges of the present hour.”

Pope: Gay Marriage is ‘Insidious and Dangerous’

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Photo credit: Beyond Forgetting

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Debra G.

7:57AM PST on Jan 15, 2012

As a Roman Catholic, I am deeply saddened that the Magisterium continues to promote bigotry. I haven't been to Mass (except weddings and funerals) since I saw Brokeback Mountain.
The Catholic Church claims to be the direct lineage of Christ. Didn't he say not to judge?

send a green star

Past Member .

9:04PM PST on Jan 14, 2012

It's a good thing "Thor" didn't send down any lightning bolts!

William Y.

8:55PM PST on Jan 14, 2012

@ Dr C. Are you just know figuring that out? I thought that was common knowledge.

Dr C.

3:43PM PST on Jan 14, 2012

If an occurrence of nature supports a religious view it is claimed "an act of god" , if those same occurrences would seem to denounce their view "it's just the weather".

That would indeed seem to be an expression of "heads I win , tails you loose" :)

G S.

6:10PM PDT on Oct 25, 2011

This story is purely ignorant. So what if it was a windy day. That does not prove that God is advocating for anyone. It's just WEATHER. Weather happens all around the world.

Glen P.

3:52PM PDT on Oct 6, 2011

It's interesting how weather phenomenon seem to disfavor the most anti-gay people and organizations around the nation and the world.

Joy J.

3:29PM PDT on Sep 26, 2011

haha cool :)

7:20AM PDT on Sep 19, 2011

@ Eternal G. If that had happened the religious-right would have claimed he was the reincarnation of Elijah.

Eternal G.

9:28PM PDT on Sep 18, 2011

Hahaha wish the winds had swooped him away into the heavens above... and further.

Jane R.